Low Testosterone

Oh, How Manly!

Manliness. A man’s man. Masculine and rugged. All these terms cultivate a set of images about what a man is supposed to look like and how they are supposed to exist in our society. The media has helped develop stereotypes of men as hale, hearty, vigorous, and virile. That image creates the assumption that a manly man has an abundance of testosterone coursing through his veins, creating an impressive specimen of manhood. While high levels of testosterone are usually true for men in their teens, 20s, and 30s, as we age, hormonal levels, like other body parts, go south. For men, that means their testosterone levels decrease, causing a variety of unpleasant or difficult physical and, sometimes, even emotional symptoms.

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is a hormone or chemical released through messages sent and received through the body’s endocrine system. Hormones are complex. They regulate many bodily functions, including blood pressure, heart rate, metabolism, and growth. Hormones also regulate the development of gender-specific bodily functions and attributes. For men, testosterone is the primary hormone responsible for the development of physical characteristics associated with maleness. This includes the deepening of the voice, development of male sex organs, typical male hair growth in the pubic area and legs, and libido. Testosterone is essential to overall male health, but what happens when testosterone levels decrease? Men become acutely aware of low testosterone when it directly affects sexual desire and erectile function.

Low Testosterone

As one’s testosterone level decreases, a multitude of symptoms can appear. Some of these are:

  • Difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of muscle mass
  • Loss of strength
  • Weight gain
  • Loss of libido
  • Loss of hair or decreased facial hair growth
  • Depression

 

All of these symptoms affect a man’s quality of life, but, if low testosterone isn’t treated, it can also lead to a shorter lifespan.

Is Low Testosterone Treatable?

The good news is, yes! Low testosterone is treatable. Of course, to treat this condition, you must first have an appropriate medical workup. At Patuxent Wellness Center, our professional staff will consult with you and determine what diagnostic tools are appropriate. Your clinician may utilize some of the following:

  • Blood work
  • Thorough review of your medical history
  • Evaluation of your lifestyle
  • Physical exam

Patuxent Wellness Center Can Help

The professionals at Patuxent Wellness Center provide comprehensive, compassionate care to create a plan to help you live your best life. Owned by a nurse practitioner, our goal is to provide integrative care that embraces all of you. We provide a combination of evidence-based, conventional care and progressive, alternative care options to help you create the vital, healthy life you want to lead.

Treatment for low testosterone can increase your quality of life exponentially! Through our treatment options, you can experience increased mental acuity, improved libido and sexual satisfaction, an improvement in depression or lack of motivation, and, finally, better muscle tone and overall physical condition. Contact us today to regain the energy and strength of your youth.

Disclaimer: The information contained here was not written by a medical doctor and is intended for informational purposes only. This is not a substitute for medical advice.

Image credit: Envato Elements / arthurhidden

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